HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-12-28 Arborist CommentsJulie Hultman
From: kdwidin@comcast.net
Sent: Tuesday, December 28, 2004 12:08 PM
To: Tom Ozzello; Julie Hultman; Dennis Post ler; Eric A. Johnson; Jim Butler; Scott Richards; Mark
Vier ling
Subject: Landscaping - Wal-Mart Expansion
OPH Staff -
I have reviewed the tree removal and landscape plans for the proposed expansion for Wal-Mart and have the following
comments:
1. All trees and shrubs currently on site will be removed except for 11 of the trees off the SE end of the existing building.
Most of these trees and shrubs would not be considered significant per the City's Tree Preservation Ordinance. Many
trees, shrubs and perennials are proposed for the expansion landscaping and would satisfy planting requirements.
2. It does not look as if there is a provision for a berm on the south side of the expanded building. There are many
residential units on the south side of 58th St., as well as a City park. I would recommend a berm or some kind of tall
screening or fencing to screen views of the back of the building, loading docks, storage areas, etc. If there is not room
for a berm north of 58th St., perhaps they will need to put in larger trees, such as 8-10 ft. tall.
3. The species of trees, shrubs and perennials which are proposed to be included in the landscaping are acceptable, being
hardy, attractive, disease-resistant species which do not require excessive maintenance. I would recommend that they
replace at least half of the Summit ash with other deciduous tree species such as honeylocust, hackberry and oak to
reduce future damage from imported pests such as the emerald ash borer which is anticipated to invade Minnesota within
the next 5-10 years.
4. Plant sizes are appropriate, except possibly for evergreens on the south side of the expansion as mentioned in item #2
and the 1 in. diameter quaking aspen around the west detention basin. These trees should be larger (at least 1.5 in.
diameter for aspen).
5. The Planting Detail for trees and shrubs looks good. The developer should be sure that the landscape contractor is
aware of the specifications in the planting detail, such as removal of top rungs of wire basket, burlap and twine, and
watering several times during the planting process. Contractors will be required to return to complete this work if it is not
done at time of planting. Watering once per week during the first two growing seasons will also be important for
establishing new landscape plants, and provisions should be made for watering of trees, shrubs and perennials.
6. Some of the specified trees look as if they will be planted within the street right-of-way for 58th St. just to the NW of
the existing detention basin. These trees should be planted on the Wal-Mart property, not within the street right-of-way.
If you have any questions regarding this memo, please contact me.
Kathy Widin
Arborist
City of Oak Park Heights
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